Tacopocalypse closes after five years of serving Asian-inspired tacos in Des Moines' East Village

When it comes to work, it’s important to do what you love and love what you do. For some, that’s teaching or writing or helping others. But if what you love is tacos, well, that can be a job too.
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Sam Auen, owner of Krunkwich and Tacopocalypse in Des Moines is making changes at his restaurants.(Photo: Register file photo)Buy Photo

A popular taco restaurant in the East Village is closing its doors with plans to relocate to a new spot, according to a post on its Instagram page.

Tacopocalypse, located at 407 E. 5th Street in Des Moines, is closing its doors after five years in the East Village location. It served a variety of Asian-inspired tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, soups and tots with a focus on vegetarian and vegan dishes using housemade seitan and jackfruit.

"As some of you have noticed, we have closed our doors in the East Village," Tacopocalypse posted on Instagram. "It was a crazy five years downtown, thank you for all the memories and the opportunity to serve you 'Devastatingly Good Food.' A relaunch is planned in a new location Spring 2019. Thank you for all the love over the years. We love you too."

Chef and owner Sam Auen could not be reached for comment Wednesday.

"We will be back soon, but we will also still be here talking about tacos," said an in-post comment from Tacopocalypse. "Because tacos are still important."

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Auen opened Tacopocalypse in 2013 after operating as a mobile food stand in various Des Moines locations. Its current location was its second in the East Village. Auen continues to operate Krunkwich Ramen House at 2721 Ingersoll Avenue in Des Moines.

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Try the masa fries at Tacopocalypse.(Photo: Register file photo)

In January 2015, Tacopocalypse was featured on an episode of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" after a visit from Food Network star Guy Fieri.

A listing on LoopNet.com real estate site shows the first-floor 1,584-square-foot location available for lease from Dec. 1.

Read or Share this story: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/entertainment/dining/2018/11/07/tacopocalypse-closes-after-five-years-east-village-des-moines-tacos-seitan-bulgogi-tots-masa-2018/1921365002/